Hotels

Columbia HillenSipping cocktails in an underground 100-year-old bank vault reminiscent of a glamorous speakeasy is a rare treat, but that’s what friends and I enjoyed in the heart of Old Town Bucharest.  Columbia HillenLong before it was renovated and opened as a stately hotel by Lithuania-based Apex Alliance Hotel Management (AAHM) more than two years ago, the Marmorosch Bucharest was one of Romania’s most influential banks during the La Belle Epoque era. Known as Banca Marmorosch Blank, it was established in 1912 by Jacob Marmarosch and Mauriciu Blank and during the 40-60 million euro renovation, the new owners, fully aware of…

San Francisco's iconic Palace HotelThey don’t make hotels like this anymore. With its 11-foot ceilings, wide hallways, Italian marble columns, and crystal chandeliers, San Francisco’s Palace Hotel is the embodiment of everything the City by the Bay was and continues to be: elegant, sophisticated, chic, contemporary, and inclusive. Few hotels in the nation can claim such significant relevance within their cities, but by gracefully marrying its rich history with current comforts, the Palace (part of Marriott Hotels & Resorts Luxury Collection) has maintained San Francisco hospitality icon status for nearly 150 years, racking-up more than just a few notable moments and achievements. Here are…

Hotel CalifornianIf you’re looking to relax and recharge this winter, look no further than a sunny escape at the pristine Hotel Californian in charming Santa Barbara. Perfectly situated a stone’s throw from the beach in the famed Funk Zone, the 121-room boutique hotel oozes designer elegance thanks to its striking decor by Martyn Lawrence Bullard. The notable designer counts Kourtney Kardashian, Kylie Jenner, Cher, and The Osbournes among his famous clients, so it’s no wonder that every detail at this property is perfectly appointed with Moorish-inspired furnishings that feel both glamorous yet grounded in history.    Hotel CalifornianAfter all, the elegant…

Courtesy of Urban Cowboy HotelsOpening soon is the first Denver outpost for Urban Cowboy Hotels, the brand’s Westernmost historic boutique property. Located in the Capital Hill neighborhood of the Mile High City, Urban Cowboy’s 16 unique suites are housed in a historic Queen Anne style Guided Era Mansion that’s been lovingly restored and reimagined. Three floors of maximalist details bring to life this 1800s space, bringing something to discover at every turn. Courtesy of Urban Cowboy HotelsThis historic gem — formerly the George Schleier Mansion — will feature a Public House restaurant in the mansion’s old carriage house, a wine bar…

Photo courtesy of Dom Pedro LisboaSometimes it’s the little things that make the difference during a hotel stay, mine at the 5-star Dom Pedro in Lisbon was when friendly sales director, Paulo Almeida, kindly organized baggage in my absence at late notice easing my stress following travel difficulties. Not to mention long-time staff member and maître d', Carina Torres, who has worked at the hotel for the last twenty years, never failing to have a warm smile on her face when I appeared for breakfast at Bistrot Le Café and engaging me in interesting conversation. Photo courtesy of Dom Pedro LisboaWhile…

Courtesy of Grand Velas Boutique Los CabosThere’s a seemingly endless array of luxury options for indulgent Los Cabos, Mexico getaways, but none are as lavish as the Billionaire Buyout offered by the stylish oceanfront sanctuary, Grand Velas Boutique Los Cabos. The brand new, adults-only 79-suite property has curated an unforgettable three-night stay for two for the tidy sum of $600,000.  Limousines are too pedestrian for billionaires, so after landing at San José del CaboInternational Airport, a private helicopter will fly Billionaire Buyout guests to the Grand Velas Boutique hotel for a soaring VIP experience before checking into their ocean-view accommodations…

Even before its stunning new refresh, the Inn at the Presidio qualified as one of San Francisco’s best hospitality secrets. Tucked within the bucolic and pastoral national park site, with views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, the Inn has served as my R&R “go-to” for nearly a dozen years. It offers a serene escape surrounded by 1,500 acres of enchanting forests, miles of hiking and biking trails, stunning beaches, restaurants, and an 18-hole public golf course. Whenever I crave a San Francisco “fix,” the Inn at the Presidio and its environs serve as my north star, refueling and restoring my sense of…

(credit: Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts)For those who want to prioritize their wellness to start 2024, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts have exclusive experiences around the world that aim to invigorate the mind, body and soul. From ancient treatments in the Blue Zone of Costa Rica at Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo Costa Rica and sleep-wellness analysis with expert guides at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort, to traditional energy healing with resident wellness practitioners at Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai, Hoi An, these innovative wellness experiences and treatments go beyond just an amazing spa and will help you…

Courtesy of Place III HotelsA tree grows in London…in an unexpected place. Where a drab car park once stood, Central London’s most exciting new luxury hotel has recently sprouted. As the very first property from hospitality disrupters Place III Hotels, The BoTree planted its roots at the intersection of Soho, Marylebone, and Mayfair, and quickly became the lush neighborhood social center where well-heeled locals rub elbows with international clientele, and where a thoughtfully green ethos prevails.  And what a blooming special place it is. The 199-room property commands the block on three sides, welcoming guests through a large corner entrance…

The St. Regis Bar, San FranciscoI’ve been writing about San Francisco hotels for nearly a decade, yet I’d never experienced the pleasure of a St. Regis San Francisco stay, until now. The hotel’s elegant front entrance is tucked discreetly along Minna St., giving it what I would call an “under-the-radar gem” designation. It’s not exactly a “stumble upon” destination. But judging from the evening revelry one recent weeknight in the hotel’s St. Regis Bar and tea salon—aided by the dramatic, nightly, 6pm sabering of a bottle of bubbly to celebrate the day’s transition to evening—I appear to be in the minority…